Offbeat with Paul Hose

In this episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul is joined by guitarist, composer and educator Graehme Floyd.

Graehme’s musical journey began at the age of eight with the piano. Five years later, everything changed when he discovered Metallica and made the move to guitar.

Since then, he has developed an extensive musical vocabulary spanning classical and jazz theory, advanced improvisation, virtuoso technique, composition, music business and artist development.

As a founding member of Opus Rex, Graehme’s path crossed with drummer Karl Sloman while teaching guitar at the Wizdom Music Academy in London, Ontario. After just a few months, Karl invited him to join the Rush and Dream Theater tribute project Falling into Infinity.

That collaboration became the start of a long musical partnership, with Graehme and Karl going on to work together across a wide range of projects including an Elton John tribute act, jazz/funk group Silvermax, the musical Rent, and symphonic metal band Autocratic Oath.

Graehme’s influences are equally broad, including John Petrucci, Kirk Hammett, Yngwie Malmsteen, Guthrie Govan, John Coltrane, J.S. Bach and RUSH.

Paul and Graehme talk about studying music, developing as a musician, performing live and the realities of building a professional career in music.

The conversation also turns to one of the industry’s persistent challenges: fair pay for professional musicians.

What becomes particularly striking is just how similar the picture looks on both sides of the Atlantic. Despite working in different countries, Paul and Graehme find themselves comparing remarkably familiar experiences in the UK and Canada — from expectations placed on musicians to the economics of live performance.

A wide-ranging conversation about musicianship, professionalism, learning, performance and the realities behind the stage.

Offbeat with Paul Hose

Real conversations. Creative minds. Unexpected stories.

Connect with Graehme

https://www.graehmefloyd.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/graehmefloyd

In this episode of Offbeat, Paul sits down with Laura Spencer — singer, actress, mother, entrepreneur, performing arts educator and co-owner/director of Music Learning Collective.

Laura's career has never followed just one path. Alongside her creative life, she has built considerable experience in communications, events and operations. Her professional journey includes more than a decade with Boots UK, progressing through events, operations and communications roles, before bringing that experience into the creative industries. Today, she is Director of Communications and Events at MLC and has nearly two decades of experience as a Principal with Stagecoach Performing Arts.

But the CV only tells part of the story.

Paul and Laura talk about the person behind all those different roles: performer, teacher, business owner and mum. They explore Laura's early creative influences, singing and acting, the realities of building a career in the arts and what happens when creativity meets entrepreneurship.

They also get into the world of Stagecoach Performing Arts and Laura's experience as a franchisee and Principal; her journey with Music Learning Collective; and the challenges and opportunities that come with leading creative organisations while still maintaining an identity as an artist.

Laura's background in Communications Studies at Nottingham Trent University adds another thread to a career that has continually brought together communication, performance, education and business.

It's also a conversation about change — how priorities shift, how careers evolve, how parenthood changes perspective, and why a creative career doesn't necessarily have to look the way you imagined it would when you started.

There are highs, lows, stories from the stage and plenty of reflections on what it actually takes to make a life in the creative industries.

The One with Laura Spencer.

Real conversations. Creative minds. Unexpected stories.

We Will Rock You

Be sure to catch Laura at the Derby Theatre this October as she plays Oz in the West End smash hit by Queen and Ben Elton.

Anthology Vol II

Listen to Laura singing on Paul's album on Spotify and Apple Music.

Technical glitches: There were the occasional electrical glitch in Paul's feed in the first three minutes. The conversation is so important though that it was felt recording it again could result in certain key points being lost forever. Apologies and thanks in equal measure.

In this special syndicated episode of Offbeat, Paul takes a slightly different approach. Rather than sitting down with a musician, educator or creative practitioner chatting about their career, Paul and publisher, Jonathan Curtis talk about the book: The Creative Practitioner: A Guide to Working in the Arts.

Written by Paul Hose and Jonathan Curtis, The Creative Practitioner was conceived as a practical guide for anyone seeking to build a sustainable career in the arts. Part reference manual, part professional handbook and part field guide, the book explores the realities of creative life beyond the stage, studio and rehearsal room.

Throughout the episode, Paul reflects upon the themes that inspired the book, including:

• the changing nature of the creative industries;
• performance, teaching and subject knowledge;
• academic rigour and professional development;
• safeguarding and best practice;
• vocational qualifications and training;
• entrepreneurship and portfolio careers.

Although rooted in music, the principles discussed extend far beyond a single discipline and are intended for musicians, designers, photographers, illustrators, actors, dancers, independent artists and anybody looking to professionalise their craft.

Listeners will also hear the story behind the book itself: how the project came into being, the conversations that shaped it, and why Paul and Jonathan believe that creative practice should be approached with the same care, discipline and professionalism found in any other field.

Special thanks go to Artificer Productions, the book's publisher, for their continued support of independent artists, educators and authors. Jonathan's catalogue of publications has become an important contribution to contemporary music education, performance practice and creative scholarship.

About the book

The Creative Practitioner: A Guide to Working in the Arts is available in print, digital and Kindle editions from Amazon.

About the podcast

The Creative Practitioner: A Guide to Working in the Arts is available wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul sits down with drummer, educator, clinician and all-round larger-than-life character Karl Sloman.

Karl’s career has taken him from performing and teaching to clinics, masterclasses and appearances at major drum events around the world. An artist with Dream Cymbals, Karl brings the same energy, enthusiasm and unmistakable personality to this conversation that he brings to the drum kit.

The conversation covers Karl’s journey through music, the realities of building a life around being a professional musician, teaching, performing, the people and experiences that have shaped him, and his continued passion for drums and drumming.

Karl also talks about Opus Rex, the progressive rock project featuring Karl alongside guitarist and composer CJ Crews, bassist Michael Dearing and vocalist Mark Boals.

As you might expect, the conversation occasionally wanders gloriously off course.

There are stories. Opinions. Laughs. Strong personalities. A little mildly colourful language. And plenty of moments that capture exactly why Karl is such a memorable character.

This is an energetic, candid and thoroughly entertaining conversation with a musician who has spent decades doing what he loves — and who still has plenty to say about it.

This is The One with Karl Sloman.

Discover more about Karl and his work with Dream Cymbals.

Listen to Opus Rex on Spotify.

Karl also shares his contact details during the episode and welcomes people getting in touch:

[email protected]

A small note for listeners: this episode contains some mildly colourful language, and the views and opinions expressed by Karl during the conversation are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Paul Hose or Offbeat.

In this episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul sits down with renowned drummer, educator, author and clinician David Stanoch for a wide-ranging conversation about music, education, resilience and building a lifelong career in the arts.

What begins as a catch-up between old friends quickly becomes a fascinating exploration of the drumming world, from the corridors of the NAMM Show to concert halls, recording studios and classrooms across America.

David shares the remarkable story behind his acclaimed book Mastering the Tables of Time, explaining how an interview with legendary drummer Tony Williams inspired a ten-year journey into rhythm, subdivision and time awareness. He discusses how the book grew from personal practice notes into an award-winning publication that continues to influence drummers around the world.

Along the way, David reflects on the importance of mentorship and the generosity of figures such as Vic Firth, Peter Erskine, Bernard Purdie and Ed Shaughnessy, sharing invaluable lessons about publishing, education, professionalism and giving back to the next generation.

The conversation also explores David's early musical life in Minnesota, how a guitar teacher inadvertently led him towards the drums, and the role his mother played in ensuring he got the opportunity to pursue the instrument he loved. From school bands to studying with orchestral percussionist Elliot Fine, touring Europe as a teenager, and learning from world-class musicians, David's story is a masterclass in following curiosity and staying open to opportunity.

Paul and David also discuss:

• The value of community at events such as the NAMM Show
• Why timekeeping remains one of the most important skills a musician can develop
• Self-publishing versus traditional publishing
• Building a portfolio career through performance, teaching, writing and recording
• The realities of imposter syndrome and finding your place in the music industry
• Why perseverance matters more than talent alone
• Creating your own opportunities through relationships and networking
• The responsibility experienced musicians have to support those coming behind them

Above all, this episode is a conversation about people. It's about friendship, community, curiosity and the idea that success is rarely a straight line. David's warmth, humour and wisdom shine throughout, offering valuable lessons not only for drummers, but for anyone pursuing a creative life.

Key takeaway:

"If you have a passion for something, if you have a belief in something, don't let anybody stop you. Go for it." — David Stanoch

• Website: David Stanoch
• Author of Mastering the Tables of Time
• Instagram: Educator, performer, clinician and former Drumset Editor for the Percussive Arts Society

Offbeat with Paul Hose is a podcast exploring creativity, music, education and the stories behind the people who make things happen. Through relaxed conversations with musicians, educators, authors and creative practitioners, Paul uncovers the experiences, lessons and unexpected moments that shape a life in the arts.

In this important episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul sits down with drummer, educator and creative powerhouse Ciara Chinniah for a refreshingly honest conversation about life behind and away from the kit.

Paul and Ciara dive into Ciara’s acclaimed drum camps, the realities of taking career breaks, navigating imposter syndrome, and the pressures of trying to “fit in” within the drum scene whilst still remaining authentic. Together, they explore the ever-changing landscape of their careers, the challenge of staying relevant and questioning what that statement actually means, as well as the importance of finding confidence in your own creative voice.

This episode is thoughtful, funny, relatable and packed with insight for musicians, creatives and anyone who has ever questioned where they belong in their industry.

You can connect with Ciara here:

🌐 ciaradrums.com

📸 @ciaradrums on Instagram

Offbeat with Paul Hose — conversations about creativity, careers, music and the stories behind the people who make it happen.

WARNING: There is some frank language used in this episode.

In this lovely episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul sits down with long-term friend and mentor, Pete Gamber, for a warm, honest and music-filled conversation.

The pair reflect on their shared love of music, the magic of the NAMM Show in California, and the experiences that have shaped their journeys both on and off the stage. Throughout the episode, it’s clear just how highly Paul regards Pete — not only as a superb musician, but as a trusted mentor whose guidance and friendship have meant a great deal over the years.

Pete also shares his story of making the move to California, life on the legendary Route 66, and the passion that continues to drive his commitment to music education. His enthusiasm for helping others grow through music shines throughout this episode.

A heartfelt chat, full of stories, friendship and inspiration.

Connect with Pete on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petegamber/

In this episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul reconnects with Florida-based drummer John Favicchia for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation about life in music.

John shares his journey from growing up in New York City to building a career as a professional drummer, offering insight into the realities of the music industry and the mindset required to sustain a long-term career. The discussion explores not only the practicalities of working as a musician, but also the philosophy that underpins John’s approach—resilience, adaptability and staying true to your musical identity.

The conversation is rich with shared history, as Paul and John reflect on their time together across the UK, New York and Los Angeles. They swap stories about influential teachers, formative experiences, and the environments that shaped them both as players and educators.

This episode is as much about friendship and shared experience as it is about drumming—an honest and engaging look at what it means to build a life in music across continents and cultures.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

1. John’s early life and musical beginnings in New York City
2. Building and sustaining a career as a professional drummer
3. Navigating the realities of the modern music industry
4. The influence of great teachers and mentors
5. Reflections on time spent in the UK, New York and Los Angeles
6. The importance of mindset, identity and longevity in music

Explore John’s work:

1. https://linktr.ee/Johnfav?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=18cba529-2143-4aeb-a410-af7f7094d318
2. https://johnfavicchia.com/band-projects

In this episode of Offbeat with Paul Hose, Paul sits down with the exceptional Rob Hirons — drummer, educator, manager and teacher at Music Learning Collective Marseille, and a long-standing friend.

Rob is a drummer of depth and feel, known not only for his groove but for his commitment to teaching and community-building. The conversation moves effortlessly between drums, life, relocation and the realities of building a sustainable creative career.

1. Rob’s early musical roots growing up in Yorkshire
2. Discovering the drums and developing his sound
3. The leap from the UK to Marseille in the south of France
4. Adapting to a new culture and music scene
5. The discipline behind great drumming — feel, time and musicality
6. Leading and teaching at MLC Marseille
7. Balancing performance, management and mentorship

There is plenty of drum talk — tone, groove, technique and the lifelong pursuit of pocket — but at its heart, this is a conversation about courage, friendship and creative evolution.

Rob’s journey from Yorkshire to Marseille reflects what many musicians quietly navigate: risk, reinvention and resilience. Moving countries for music is never just about geography — it’s about identity, opportunity and community.

Listeners will hear not just the story of a drummer, but of a creative professional who has built something meaningful in a new environment while staying true to his roots.

1. 🌐 Website: https://www.robhirons.com/
2. ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RobHirons
3. 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robhirons/?hl=en

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In this episode of Offbeat, Paul chats with drummer, educator and creative thinker Pat Garvey for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about life behind the kit — and beyond it.

Pat shares his journey from early beginnings on the drums through to building a sustainable creative career, reflecting on the realities of professional musicianship, artistic identity, teaching, and the ongoing challenge of finding balance in a busy musical life. This is a grounded, thoughtful discussion about growth, craft, and staying human while pursuing excellence.

1. Pat’s early experiences with the drums and formative influences
2. Developing from young player to working professional
3. Pat's role in education and mentorship in musical growth
4. Building his career in today’s creative landscape
5. Artistry and employability — how Pat navigates both
6. Teaching, running a drum school, and giving back
7. Creative wellbeing and avoiding burnout
8. Finding balance between music, work and life

1. Pat Garvey — Website: https://www.patgarvey.net/
2. Brighton Drum School: https://www.thebrightondrumschool.com/
3. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garvoid/
4. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PatGarveyDrums

Offbeat features relaxed, in-depth conversations with creative practitioners, educators and thinkers working across music and the arts — exploring process, purpose, and the stories behind the work.